Candlewood and Codfish Bones

Fascinating are the tales of the bravery and heartiness of the women of Old Cape Cod. Many were descendants of the original pilgrims, but much courage was still required of women, usually very young, who dared set out on a sea journey from the old country to the new, whether persons of means or indentured servants; and once there, to live much of the time with their men away at sea, perhaps never to return. These poems try to recreate the daily struggles and hardships of these women, but also their joys and levity, in such a manner as may have been expressed in 18th century New England.